'Selena' ActressDead at 69

7/27/2012 6:08 AM PDT UPDATED:7/27/2012 12:54 PM PDT

Lupe Ontiveros Dead -- 'Selena' Actress Dies at 69

Jennifer Lopez has released a statement, saying, "I am tremendously saddened by the news of Lupe's passing! I've enjoyed her work throughout the years. She was a great actress and working with her in Selena was an unforgettable experience. She will truly be missed."

Prolific Mexican-American character actress Lupe Ontiveros, best known for playing the convicted murderer of the Tejano singer in "Selena," has died. She was 69.

Ontiveros was reportedly suffering from liver cancer.

Lupe's "Selena" co-star Jacob Vargas was at her bedside last night and tweeted, "My friend Lupe Ontiveros just passed away. May you rest in peace. Thank you for your great contribution to film and TV. You will be missed."

Some of Lupe's long list of other credits include "The Goonies," "As Good As it Gets," Hill Street Blues" and "Desperate Housewives" -- for which she was nominated for an Emmy.